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MAR 2015

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124 | NAILS MAGAZINE | MARCH 2015
EXPERT OPINION: In the November 2014 issue of AIDS, Research and Human Retroviruses,
it was reported that a 22-year-old Brazilian woman had likely contracted HIV by using
the manicure equipment of a cousin who was unknowingly HIV positive at the time. This
woman had no other risk factors for acquiring the disease, and other analysis provided
substantial evidence that the sharing of the manicure tools was the culprit.
Although infection via this mode of transmission is rare, this case illustrates that it is
possible. "Improperly disinfected manicure tools with possible blood-blood contact can
result in transmission of bloodborne pathogens," says Dr. Dana Stern, M.D., a board-
certified dermatologist specializing in nails. "These pathogens include, but are not limited
to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)."
While most bloodborne pathogens are spread sexually or through the use of shared
needles for illicit intravenous drug use, they can be transmitted via accidental needle sticks
and other sharp object-related injuries. "Transmission of bloodborne diseases during nail
services could occur when a small amount of pathogen-containing blood is present on
the manicure equipment and comes into contact with another client or technician's blood
stream by a tiny opening in the skin such as a paper cut," says Dr. Stern. "These small
amounts of contamination are microscopic and would not be visible with the naked eye. In
other words, the equipment would appear to be clean."
Dr. Stern emphasizes that it is important to understand that not all bloodborne
pathogens are alike. Certain viruses, such as HCV for example, can spread more easily
through contact with manicure equipment or one-time-use items such as nail files because
HCV can survive outside the human body for at least 16 hours — even up to four days —
and HCV causes infection with relatively little viral exposure.
The following are some precautions Dr. Stern suggests that all nail techs take to protect
themselves from bloodborne pathogens:
> Vaccination against hepatitis B should be highly considered by any nail technician who
works with the public.
> A tech who doesn't regularly wear gloves should consider doing so, especially if she has
a cut or opening in the skin.
> Avoiding credo-like blades is a protective measure for nail technicians. Be especially
careful with all tools that can induce bleeding, including sharp-edged foot files and
cuticle nippers.
> Work space precautions can serve to protect not just the health of the client but the nail
technician as well. One-time-use items such as porous nail files and buffing blocks should
be disposed of after every client. The alternative is that the nail technician is continuously
handling viral contaminated equipment. Workspaces should be highly organized so that
new and clean equipment is clearly separated from used and dirty tools.
> Healthcare providers use the term "universal precautions." This means they treat all
patients and equipment as if it is known to be infectious. This concept is especially
important for nail technicians who don't routinely take the health history of their clients.
}
HEALTH
Are you at risk for catching a dangerous virus in your salon?
Although rare, it is possible to contract a bloodborne pathogen
during a nail service. Learn how to protect yourself from these
potentially devastating diseases.
Healthy Living:
Bloodborne Pathogens
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA):
Bloodborne Pathogens and Needlestick Prevention. The
information on this website explains employer responsibilities
and worker rights regarding bloodborne pathogens, discusses
what can be done to control exposure, and includes a FAQ
section and quick reference guide.
Find it here: http://tinyurl.com/NAILSBBPathogen
TECH TIPS:
I actually never worry about contracting
and/or spreading any bloodborne
pathogens. It's always on my mind, of
course, but that's why I take proper
precautions. I never cut the eponychium, I
always wear gloves, and I use hospital-grade
disinfectant on everything — implements,
desk, lamps — everything. I also use a new
towel for every client. I actually treat every
client like they have something contagious.
Everyone gets a new file and everything is
disinfected. From my knowledge, I have yet
to deal with anything too serious, as I have
new clients fill out a client sheet. It helps
them, and it helps me help them.
Beth Albrecht
Nails by Beth, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
I don't really worry about this after doing
nails for 28 years, but I am cautious. Very
rarely is there any blood involved, and if
there is I make sure not to touch it. I use
styptic powder to clot any blood flow.
Occasionally clients pick or bite at their
cuticles, and in trying to file the nail or nip
off dead skin flaps sticking up around that
area, sometimes the skin will start to bleed.
We have a first aid kit at the salon, and I
immediately have the client wash the blood
away with water and germicidal soap. The
styptic powder really helps to stop further
bleeding, and if it doesn't work right away,
then we use a folded up paper towel to add
pressure until the bleeding does stop.
Jill Wright
Jill's — A Place for Nails, Bowling Green, Ky.